David Rowan Fined $500 And Disqualified For Six Months

Mr. David Rowan failed to attend an inquiry on Thursday, 8 May 2014, when directed to do so by the Stewards.

Report:

The Stewards of Greyhound Racing Victoria proposed to open an inquiry into certain conduct of Mr. David Rowan.

The inquiry was called for on Thursday, 8 May 2014.

Mr. Rowan failed to attend the inquiry. Stewards charged Mr. Rowan with a breach of GAR86 (e) which provides that being an owner, trainer attendant or person having official duties in relation to greyhound racing, who refuses or fails to attend or give evidence or produce a document or other thing at an inquiry held pursuant to these Rules when directed by the Controlling Body, Stewards or the committee of a club to do so, commits an offence.

Under Rule 47.1 of the Greyhound Racing Victoria Local Rules a breach of GAR86 (e) constitutes a Serious Offence.

As a result, on Monday, 25 August 2014 this matter was heard before the Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board in the first instance under Greyhound Local Racing Rule 47.3 and Sections 83C(b) and 83M(1) of the Racing Act.

Mr. David Rowan represented himself and appeared via telephone.

Mr. Glenn Fish (GRV Chief Steward) represented the Stewards Panel.

Mr. David Rowan refused to plead to the charge. The RADB entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.

After hearing all the evidence tendered the RADB determined that Mr. David Rowan was guilty of failing to attend an Inquiry on Thursday, 8 May 2014, when directed to do so by the Stewards.

Mr. Rowan was fined the sum of $500 and disqualified for a period of six months, such disqualification period to commence as from the date of expiration of the disqualification period imposed on Mr. Rowan by VCAT on Monday, 21 July 2014.

In assessing penalty, the Board took into account all the evidence and submissions, including the following matters:

(a) Mr. David Rowan’s not guilty plea;
(b) Prior penalties for similar charges including the penalty imposed on Mr. Rowan by VCAT on Monday, 21 July 2014;
(c) Mr. David Rowan’s attitude and comments in the hearing